If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!

Gardeners in seaside locations encounter a unique set of challenges, including salty spray; drying winds; sandy soil that may lack nutrients; and (in Zones 5-6) cold winter weather.

Salt can be damaging in a variety of ways. It stunts plant growth and can sear foliage. The damaging effects of salt cannot be neutralized with chemicals or fertilizers.

Planting is difficult in sandy soil. There are few nutrients. Water drains right through it, and sandy soil is easily blown about in seaside conditions.

The effects of wind are obvious. Soil dries out quickly and in turn plants lack necessary moisture. Also, high winds can tear leaves and foliage.

Fortunately, the seaside gardener can work around these issues.

Work with your soil to make it more hospitable for your plants. Mix in plenty of organic matter (such as compost) to allow your soil to keep in enough moisture. Also, the organic matter helps prevent salt from accumulating. Your new, “heavier” soil, with a higher moisture content, is less likely to blow in your seaside winds. Rinse your plants after a storm to remove any salt.

You’ll need to protect plants from the elements. Use rocks or some other hard material to edge beds and borders. Ensure that your soil is level with (or a bit below) the soil level in your lawn. This will encourage your plants to retain moisture and will help keep your soil in place within the beds.

If your garden is battered by the wind, you might want to install a fence, wall or hedge that has open spaces to allow breezes through. Mulch with faily heavy materials, such as pebbles or bark chips.

Select plants for your conditions. Plants that are known to survive in coastal climates are often fleshy, “furry,” waxy, or gray or silver in color. Rosemary and thyme (as well as afew other herbs) do well in coastal gardens, as do ornamental.

Tags: Coastal+Gardens, Seaside+Gardening

Popularity: 56% [?]